Chasing The Northern Lights

Arrive in Longyearbyen, one of the world’s northernmost settlements, and transfer privately to your hotel. This evening, venture beyond the town lights to Camp Barentz, set beneath Breinosa mountain at 78° north. Gather around the fire in a replica explorer’s cabin while your hosts share stories of Svalbard and the Northern Lights. Enjoy a traditional reindeer stew, campfire coffee and dessert while watching the dark Arctic sky for the appearance of the aurora.

Set out from Nybyen on a moderately challenging hike towards Larsbreen, climbing around 350 metres before entering the remarkable ice formations hidden within the glacier. Equipped with a helmet, spikes and headlamp, explore narrow passages shaped by seasonal meltwater. Later, exchange hiking boots for a silent electric snowmobile and journey into Adventdalen in search of the Northern Lights. Far from Longyearbyen’s artificial glow, travel quietly through the Arctic darkness with the possibility of the aurora illuminating the surrounding mountains and snow.

Step into Longyearbyen’s industrial past with a visit to historic Coal Mine Number 3. After a short introduction to the town, continue towards the mine near the airport and follow the same entrance once used by its miners. Put on overalls, a hard hat and headlamp before heading underground to discover how coal shaped the development and character of this remote Arctic settlement. Later, return to town for a Nordic tasting dinner, where seasonal ingredients and flavours inspired by Svalbard and the wider Arctic bring the day to an elegant close.

After breakfast, enjoy your final moments in Longyearbyen before a private transfer takes you to the airport for your onward journey. Leave Svalbard after a compact winter adventure combining the otherworldly landscapes of the polar night with glacier exploration, Arctic history, local cuisine and the possibility of witnessing the Northern Lights dancing above one of the world’s most remote settlements.